Using hydration packs while riding a mountain bike has many benefits.
The benefits of using a mountain bike hydration pack include being able to drink as you ride, being able to carry the key essentials like tools and spare parts, and not having to stop or take your hands off the handlebars when you need to drink.
After looking at the vast collection of hydration packs, we have picked the twelve best hydration systems for mountain biking, considering water and storage capacity, durability, accessibility, style, and comfort.
We reviewed each of the different categories and picked our favorite. Those categories include day packs, multi-day packs, hip packs, lumbar packs, vest packs and packs for women and children.
The Best MTB Hydration Pack
We chose the Osprey Raptor 14 as the overall best mountain bike hydration pack for mountain biking because it has a high-quality hydration hose with bite valves to access water, a separate removable tool roll, and many other features bikers will love.
The large storage capacity of the hydration bladder and bite valve allow for quick drinks without getting off the MTB or having to stop. The smart design offers an ample amount of storage to keep important tools or snacks.
Overall we could see the amount of effort Osprey put into designing a pack specifically for mountain biking. The excellent material used on this pack, the capacity of the hydration reservoir, and the superb, comfortable design make the Osprey Raptor 14 our favorite product.
More details after the comparison table.
MTB Hydration Pack Comparison Table
| Price | Brand | Model | Pack Type | Storage Capacity | Reservoir | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check | Osprey | Raptor 14 | Day Pack | 14 L | 2.5 L | 1.75 lb |
| Check | Evoc | Stage 12L | Day Pack | 12 L | Up to 3 L | 2 lb |
| Check | CamelBak | MULE 100 | Day Pack | 9 L | 3 L | 1.4 lb |
| Check | USWE | Airborne | Day Pack | 3 L | 2 L | .91 lb |
| Check | Dakine | Drafter 14L | Day Pack | 14 L | 3 L | 1 lb |
| Check | Osprey | Syncro 20 | Multi-Day Pack | 20 L | 2.5 L | 1.95 lb |
| Check | CamelBak | Skyline 10 LR | Lumbar Pack | 10 L | 3 L | 1.4 lb |
| Check | Evoc | Hip Pack 3L + 1.5L | Hip Pack | 3 L | 1.5 L | 1.15 lb |
| Check | CamelBak | Chase Vest | Vest Pack | 2.5 L | 1.5 L | .63 lb |
| Check | Osprey | Raven 10 | Women’s Day Pack | 10 L | 2.5 L | 1.5 lb |
| Check | CamelBak | Mini MULE | Kids Day Pack | 1.5 L | 1.5 L | .46 lb |
| Check | MXXY | Hydration Pack | Day Pack | 7 L | 2.25 L | 1.75 lb |
Reviews of the Best Hydration Packs for Mountain Biking
Osprey Raptor 14 – Best Overall
Key Features
- Pack: 14 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 2.5 liter capacity
- Dedicated hydration sleeve with zip pocket and hose for easy access
- Magnetic sternum strap with bite valve attachment for easy accessibility
- Airscape panel for airflow made specifically for bikers
- Lidlock bike helmet attachment
- Roll-up tool pouch for holding MTB tools
- Multipurpose side compression straps
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Roll up tool pouch included | No quick release hose |
| Hose with bite valve for hands free water access | Different pack for both genders |
| Blinker light and reflective patch attachment for added safety | It only comes in four color variations |
| Extra pockets on the waist straps for added easy access | No integrated rain cover |
| Ventilated back panel keeps your back cool |
Description
Osprey Raptor 14 is a lightweight purpose-built premium hydration pack for high-performing riders. It is a very durable product made with high-quality materials and you can feel it when you hold it in your hands.
The zippers and fabric are well made and can withstand the rigors of riding for years to come making it clearly one of the best hydration packs available.
The shoulder, sternum, and waist strap nicely fit at the back and don’t bounce around as you ride. This pack has one of the largest storage capacities of the packs we reviewed with 14 L of space.
The biggest downside to this model is that the quick release hose has been removed from the bladder. This was great for cleaning out the bladder. However, you can buy a separate reservoir by itself and you’ll get a version with the quick release hose.
Evoc Stage 12L – Best Overall Runner-Up
Key Features
- Pack: 12 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: up to 3 liter capacity
- Multi-purpose backpack that can be used for biking, hiking and more
- The airflow contact system provides maximum breathability
- Brace Link shoulder straps
- Includes integrated rain cover
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Contains additional side pockets so you can carry extra water bottles | Hydration bladder not included |
| Brace Link shoulder straps adjust to your shoulder width | Cell phone pocket may be too small for some phones |
| Separate compartment for storing tools | The side pockets are not zip-covered |
| Stays put while riding | |
| Pockets designed for cell phone, keys, sunglasses | |
| Removable waist straps |
Description
This mountain bike pack is nicely designed with lots of technical features that are perfect for a day-long trail riding session.
This pack contains a handy double zipper pulldown compartment on the back of the bag that is designed to carry tools and snacks.
The backpack does support up to 3 L reservoirs which makes it the largest water capacity of the packs we reviewed. It also has a dedicated hydration sleeve to isolate the water reservoir in case it leaks. Of course, the biggest downside to this pack is that it doesn’t actually include the reservoir so you’ll have to buy that separately. Here’s a link to their bladder: Evoc Hydration Bladder
The integrated rain cover is a great feature if you’re in a climate where it rains, however it was a bit finicky to get back into its compartment after we tried it out.
CamelBak MULE 100 – Best Classic Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 9 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 3 liter capacity
- Airflow channels on the back panel and shoulders to avoid heat
- The waist belt is detachable
- The sternum strap offers a range of adjustments to ensure a good fit
- A separate built-in zipper pocket to store your phone
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and durable | Only 9 liters of total storage space but enough for most |
| Good ventilation on back and shoulders | The top cap of the reservoir can leak if not sealed properly |
| 3 L bladder included | Not enough utility pockets |
| Dedicated section for crux reservoir |
Description
The CamelBak MULE is one of the first packs designed specifically for mountain bikers. It is the standard with which new companies benchmark against when designing their packs.
In addition to mountain biking, we’ve used this for hiking and it’s perfect for a day hike as there’s ample storage space in the pack for snacks and a first aid kit. There’s also an expandable pouch that can be used for storing a jacket in case it rains.
The hose tube on this pack is really durable so it won’t crease or get a kink in it. There’s also a nice hose clip and magnetic snap for storing the tube between drinking sessions.
Read the detailed CamelBak MULE hydration pack review here.
USWE Airborne – Best for Racing
Key Features
- Pack: 3 liter storage capacity
- Hydration: 2 liter capacity
- Advanced NDM race suspension harness
- Non-restrictive stretchy straps allow resistance-free motion and fits all sizes
- Water-resistant media compartment
- Detachable external pocket for weight reduction
- High vent shoulder straps are designed to let in cool air for additional comfort
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightest of the day packs at .91 lb | Only has 3 liters total of storage space |
| Contains a waterproof compartment for keeping phone dry | Does not have enough internal pockets |
| Magnetic attachment to lock the hose on the front strap | Once you fill the hydration bladder there isn’t much room for anything else |
| Straps nicely fit all mountain bikers | In some cases, riders experienced errors in manufacturing |
| Manufactured using high-quality durable material |
Description
The hydration pack offers a unique bounce-free experience by employing an NDM system (NDM stands for “no dancing monkeys”) with stretchy straps that click on the sternum for comfortably keeping your pack between the shoulders.
The last thing you want while zooming down the mountain is your pack moving around on your back. This pack design fixes that. It stays firmly in place and doesn’t move.
The downside to this product is the lack of storage so it won’t be great for long rides that require a lot of extra tools, food, or clothing to take with you. But it’s not made for that. This is one of the best hydration packs for racers.
Dakine Drafter 14L – Best Storage Features
Key Features
- Pack: 14 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 3 liter capacity
- Reservoir offers a bite valve with automatic shutoff, magnetic hose clip, and quick-disconnect tubing
- Air Suspension back panel for regulating temperature
- Internal e-bike spare battery storage system
- External helmet carry
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Air suspension back panel | Not great for everyday use |
| Breathable ergonomic straps for a cooling effect | Hip straps are not removable |
| Internal system to store an extra e-bike battery | Helmet carry is difficult to attach |
| Multiple internal organizer pockets | Weighs more than competitor products in the market |
| Offers safety light attachment point | No rain cover |
Description
The most promising feature of this hydration pack is its large capacity in a compact design that fits nicely on the back, causing no hindrance as you explore the mountains.
It has purpose-built pockets with zippers for proper organization but some of them are behind the area where you’d store your helmet. The straps have pockets to provide easy access to sunglasses or snacks to enjoy a continuous ride without stopping.
We had issues with the straps on the hip straps. They are not removable and you can’t really tuck them away anywhere. So, a small gripe, but if you don’t plan on using the hip straps you’ll have to wrap them around the back of the bag.
Osprey Syncro 20 – Best Multi-Day Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 20 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 2.5 liter capacity
- Front stretch mesh pocket and scratch-free heat-embossed zippered slash pocket for electronics or glasses
- Lidlock feature for helmet
- Blinker light on the front of the hydro pack to keep you safe on the trail
- Removable high-visibility rain cover in an enclosed pocket
- Zippered tool organization pocket to keep tools handy
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Back ventilation with mesh provides great airflow to limit sweating | Hip straps are not removable |
| Magnetic sternum strap | Lacks compression straps on the bottom of the bag |
| Integrated hydration system with a magnetic clip on the chest strap | Does not have a zipper on the side pockets |
| Several individual pockets to organize gear well | Too big for a single-day trip |
| A bottom pocket with a dedicated rain cover |
Description
This is a large capacity multi-day hydration pack with eight distinct pockets, two side pockets, a pocket on the shoulder strap, and a separate compartment for a hydration reservoir.
Included rain cover tucks away nicely into the bottom of the pack. The stretchy pockets on the side make it great to carry a flask with you. These features alone make it a handy pack to carry with you on multi-day mountain biking trips.
The way the pockets and zippers are laid out make it really easy to access things that you’ve stored in the bag.
The top handle, between the shoulder straps, makes it easy to carry after rides if you don’t want to wear it on your back.
CamelBak Skyline 10 LR – Best Lumbar Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 10 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 3 liter capacity
- Lumbar design to store hydration bladder lower on back
- The inner belt transfers weight to the hips while the outer belt compresses cargo
- Hip belt is well ventilated to provide comfort
- Includes roll up tool roll
- Lightweight and breathable 3D ventilated mesh harness
- Secure phone pocket to keep stuff safe and easily accessible
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Doesn’t restrict movement like a traditional backpack | Not suitable for multi day trips |
| Weight is balanced off of your shoulders | No outer or side pockets |
| Well ventilated hip belt | Not great for storage of additional mountain biking essentials |
| Easily accessible pockets | |
| Includes roll up tool organizer |
Description
This pack is specifically designed to offer support in the back’s lumbar region for MTB riders on all-day trails. It sits lower on the back and provides hip support, freeing your back from additional strain.
The most strain we noticed was in the pack itself. When we filled it completely full of water, it seemed like the pack was going to fall apart. So if you need to carry a lot of extra mountain bike essentials, this might not be the best MTB hydration pack for you.
The hydra pack has a removable tool roll but not much more space for other stuff. You can utilize the external loops to stow your helmet as well as some armor but you’ll need to make some choices about which to keep wearing and which to attach.
Evoc Hip Pack 3L – Best Hip Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 3 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 1.5 liter capacity
- Features an airflow contact system for cooling back ventilation
- Venti strap system allows adjustment for uphill or downhill riding
- Dedicated compartment for storing tools and other essentials
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality, durable material, and smart design | Small mobile phone pocket does not fit big phones |
| 1.5 L hydrapak with a top sealing system | The waist strap is designed for thin people |
| Zipper pockets to organize tools and essentials | The magnetic system for the bite valve isn’t great and falls off |
| Airflow contact system to avoid heat built up | Can’t really carry a lot of stuff for long rides |
| Elastic strap with buckle for fitting around the waist |
Description
If you’re tired of the day packs or don’t need to carry that much water, then a hip pack is a great solution. This hip pack is compact and most suitable for short mountain biking trips.
The waistband on this pack utilizes a two layer strap. The first, is a wide elastic strap with velcro that attaches beneath the buckle. This makes it very comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
It has storage space to keep important stuff and a dedicated compartment with a zipper pocket to safely place your phone. Additionally, the built-in ventilation system keeps you cool, and it hangs nicely around the hips keeping the weight off your back.
CamelBak Chase – Best Hydration Vest
Key Features
- Pack: 2.5 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 1.5 liter capacity
- Lightweight and breathable harness system made with 3D vent with added cargo
- Keeps your CO2 cartridges, patch kits and more right in the integrated tool organizers
- Harness pockets in the front to quickly grab your phone and essentials
- Pockets on the back for all-day rides where every bit of storage is needed
- Secure zippered pocket to safely place tools or other essentials on the bike
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Minimalist design keeps the vest lightweight | Lacks integrated raincoat |
| Mesh at the back for airflow | Not as much storage for essentials as other packs |
| Front storage pockets for quick access | Does not have any tech features |
| Magnetic hose attachment on the strap |
Description
Hydration vests are great because they allow you to keep important stuff up front rather than in the back like traditional day packs. They also have additional storage in the back for stuff that you don’t want falling out which can happen on steep declines.
We found that we didn’t use a lot of the zippered front pockets on the Chase Vest while riding but having easy access to those pockets up front was great when we were stopped.
This vest has dual buckle straps in the front to help keep the vest in place while mountain biking or running. Once you put it on, there’s also two side straps at the bottom that you can use to tighten the vest for a snug fit.
Osprey Raven 10 – Best Women’s Hydration Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 10 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 2.5 liter capacity
- Magnetic sternum strap for bite valve attachment
- Lidlock bike helmet attachment
- Zippered, scratch-free slash pocket for sunglasses
- Stretchable mesh zippered hip belt pockets
- Dedicated lower pocket with a roll-up tool pouch for necessary tools
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Air escape suspension system for ventilation | Only comes in a blue emerald color |
| Back panel with rigid foam for breathability | Does not have side pockets for water bottles |
| Zipper pockets on straps | No integrated raincoat |
| Good storage capacity for day-long biking trails | Not suitable for men |
Description
Women no longer have to wear packs that don’t fit well and are made for men. The Raven by Osprey is a woman’s version of one of the best hydration packs on the market.
This pack has plenty of space to carry necessary tools, gear, snacks, a raincoat or any other essentials. It has a foldable tool organizer in a dedicated pocket to efficiently organize the tools for mountain biking and provide easy access to them.
The straps are perfectly designed to fit a woman’s upper torso and are made with breathable material to maintain airflow.
CamelBak Mini MULE – Best Kids Hydration Pack
Key Features
- Pack: 1.5 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 1.5 liter capacity
- Specifically designed for kids aged 2 to 11 years
- The kid-friendly and easy to use on/off switch gives easy access to water
- Dedicated bike tool organizer pocket
- A stretch overflow pocket is perfect for stashing a rain shell or extra layer of clothes
- Reflective strips make kids easy to spot on the trail
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Not too heavy for kids when full | Extra-long straps to adjust for all sizes |
| Storage space for snacks and toys | The pack may bounce a bit on smaller kids |
| Adjustable straps for a better fit | Bladder loop is a little bit of a challenge to use |
| Soft and sturdy padded back | |
| Hose with lock system to control water flow to bite valve |
Description
This mini-sized pack is the best hydration pack for young MTB riders. It has long adjustable straps to fit kids from 2 to 11 years.
It is a great way to get your kids to drink more water, which is always a good thing. Even if kids lose the bite valve, the hose won’t leak due to an efficient lock system and will continue working.
The only issues we had were with the bladder loop being a little tricky to get on and off. The other issue is that you have to pull the hydration bladder all of the way out in order to fill it.
MXXY Hydration Pack – Honorable Mention
IMG Source: MXXYOutdoor.com
Key Features
- Pack: 7 liter storage & gear capacity
- Hydration: 2.25 liter capacity
- Dual-chamber reservoir hydration system
- Adjustable chamber capacity with dilution settings
- High-quality material built to handle extreme temperatures
- Integrated plug and play system for music
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can store two different beverages | Comes in ash gray and classic black colors only |
| Dishwasher safe hydration reservoir | More expensive than other packs |
| Zip-in shoulder straps | No outer or side pockets |
| Microfiber neck liner | No attachment for helmet |
Description
The hydration pack is a game-changer in current hydration pack technologies. It introduces dual chambers with a reservoir of 1.5 L primary section for water and 0.75 L for electrolytes, caffeine or other supplements.
IMG Source: MXXYOutdoor.com
This pack features a magnetic dial with five dilution controls to give you control over what you want to drink while riding your mountain bike. The hydration pack’s simple design and sophisticated colors mark a statement with style.
The pack seamlessly integrates with the hydration system. The chest strap has a magnetic attachment to keep the hose in place. The bite valve is guarded with a lock system so you don’t spill your precious fluids.
Buying Guide for the Best MTB Hydration Packs
Read our tips below on what to look for when shopping for the best hydration packs on the market today.
What Is A Hydration Pack?
A hydration pack is a special hydration system molded into a backpack or waist pack. It is designed such that its wearers can drink water without needing to slow down or use their hands as they ride their mountain bike.
A hydration pack has a water reservoir referred to as a hydration bladder for storing water. This bladder has a capped opening for easy refilling and cleaning and a tube and hose system that ends at a bite valve, allowing the wearer to drink water.
In addition to the bladder feature, packs also include versatile features to accommodate biking tools, spare parts, additional clothes, food, or extra gear.
Furthermore, they have multiple straps to ensure it fits nicely on your back as you explore your favorite trails.
Types Of Hydration Packs
There are different types of hydration packs that are widely available. Below is a quick run-through of different hydration packs to help you find the one that suits you best.
Fanny Packs, Hip Packs and Bum Bags
These are the smallest easy-to-carry lightweight packs that fit around the waist. They come with a single strap with a small water bladder and a small storage space for essentials.
Vest Packs
Vest packs are designed to distribute weight and storage more evenly between the front and back of the wearer. Vest packs can also carry a fair amount of water but their storage options are often limited.
Lumbar Packs
These packs are designed to ride low on the rider’s back. This lowers the weight placed on your back but still allows you to carry a decent amount of water.
Day Packs
As the name says, day packs are good to go for a day-long voyage. They have a larger bladder and offer more space to carry essential tools or extra clothing. These are lightweight and easy to carry.
Multi-Day Packs
Multi-day packs are larger, heavier, and offer excellent water and storage capacity to carry stuff for multiple days on the bike. They tend to have sturdier shoulder straps to offset the strain from the extra weight of your belongings.
What To Look For In Mountain Bike Hydration Packs?
Besides the type, many notable features influence the choice of the hydration pack. These features include:
Expandable Storage Capacity
Some hydration packs are more expandable than others. Some come with dedicated pockets to hold your stuff and keep them from shifting while other packs just have larger main compartments.
Water Capacity
Different hydration packs offer different water capacities ranging from 500 ml to 6 liters or even more. Your selection depends on your water requirements, the hydration pack’s storage capacity, and how much it will weigh after filling up.
Durability
Manufacturing material affects the durability of the pack. The bladder is made of flexible plastic or rubber, whereas the bag consists of nylon or long-lasting, waterproof materials. The quality of zippers and pulls on the pockets should also be considered.
Hose and Bite Valves
Hose quality and length add to the durability of the hydration system in the backpack. It ensures that the hose does not kink or leak. Most hoses end at a bite valve as it allows you to drink water without using your hands. A silicon cover covers the bite valve to protect it from dust.
Fit and Comfort
MTB hydration packs vary in shape, style and size.
Some hydration packs have additional padding on the backside to comfort the back of the biker. Padding brings convenience but also adds to the total weight and can restrict ventilation.
Sizing
Hydration packs come in different sizes to accommodate a wide range of mountain bikers. The shoulder strap and waist belt length play a significant role in selecting the correct size. The straps help to keep the MTB hydration packs in place.
Tech Features
Many packs on the market contain different technical features. These include nifty features like removable tool storage organizers, built-in rain covers, and straps to attach helmets.
How Easy Is It To Clean?
Regularly cleaning your hydration bladder is important to prevent the build-up of bacteria. One way to do this without filling them with water and making them leaky is by wiping them down with a wet cloth for an easy on-the-spot clean. Then be sure to dry it completely.
Final Thoughts
Hydration packs are a great accessory for mountain bikers because they help the riders to stay hydrated without interrupting the ride they’re on.
Hydration packs come in various sizes and integrate multiple functionalities to offer additional benefits for MTB bikers. They feature storage compartments, zipper pockets, ventilated backs, and offer different strap adjustment options to get a great fit.
All these features collectively present a hydration pack that fits nicely on the back, does not bounce, provides ample storage space for important gear and keeps a rider hydrated all through their ride.
After evaluating a number of hydration packs available, we concluded that Osprey Raptor 14 is one of the best hydration packs. It has multiple outstanding features to benefit the riders during their daylong riding sessions.
FAQs About Hydration Packs
How do you carry water when mountain biking?
Mountain bikers use hydration packs of various sizes to carry water and other gear. Some hydration packs also feature side pockets for a water bottle.
What should I carry in my mountain bike backpack?
Mountain bikers should carry water, food, a flashlight, a rain cover, tools for fixing mountain bikes, spare parts and first aid kits in their mountain bike backpack.
Which hydration pack is best for mountain biking?
Different types of hydration packs meet the mountain biker’s requirements. Ideally, the day packs are best suited in most situations as they have a good water-storage capacity and sufficient storage space to carry the essentials.
